AT the 2024 Malaysia Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards, held during the Gender Action Lab (GAL) Malaysia Summit at the Asia School of Business, Dr Vimaleswari K. Ramasamy, chief executive officer of STRAVIK, was honoured with a Special Mention in the Leadership Commitment category.
Recognised for her commitment to gender equality, Dr Vimaleswari’s leadership at STRAVIK underscores the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to drive impactful change, proving that even small companies can make a significant difference.
“Empowering women isn’t just a commitment; it is a catalyst for change that transforms communities and businesses alike.
“At STRAVIK, we believe in the extraordinary potential that diversity and inclusivity bring to business innovation and growth.
“This is why we foster an environment where women lead, innovate, and inspire at every level,” Dr Vimaleswari shared, emphasising her vision for STRAVIK.
STRAVIK, though a small enterprise with fewer than 10 employees, has established itself as a model for DEI, with initiatives focused on policy development, community engagement, and advocacy.
Dr Vimaleswari, fondly known as Dr Vimi, described STRAVIK’s approach to DEI policies: “We aim to show that impactful change is achievable on any scale. Our team may be small, but the strength of our commitment enables us to make a difference.”
Beyond STRAVIK’s internal initiatives, Dr Vimi extends her leadership to the wider community through collaborations with organisations like the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC), a key partner in empowering women across various sectors.
“True leadership in DEI means not only creating change within our company but also contributing to a movement that uplifts the entire community,” she explained.
Additionally, STRAVIK champions gender-equitable policies and mentorship through partnerships with entities such as Talent Corp and Centre for Research on Women and Gender (KANITA).
“For us, leading on DEI is about more than internal policies – it is about using our platform to advocate for women’s rights across Malaysia and beyond.
“We strive to build a legacy that empowers women globally,” Dr Vimi told Buletin Mutiara recently.
She dedicated the award to her late parents, K. Ramasamy, and R. Puvaneswari, whose values of strength and integrity inspire her leadership.
“Their legacy is the foundation of my confidence and purpose.
“My heartfelt thanks go to my husband, A. Subramaniam, who continually supports and uplifts me, enabling me to leverage my strengths, along with my daughters and family, whose unwavering belief drives my journey every day,” Dr Vimi shared.
The WEPs Awards, a joint initiative by UN Women and the UN Global Compact, recognise leaders dedicated to advancing gender equality and empowering women across all sectors.
With over 10,000 companies globally as signatories, the WEPs initiative offers a framework for gender inclusivity.
PWDC’s leadership has played a significant role in Penang’s socio-economic progress, championing policies and community partnerships that create a pathway for women to lead and thrive.
“We are proud to collaborate with organisations like PWDC, whose leadership in gender equality inspires us to reach further,” Dr Vimi stated.
Through her vision and partnerships, Dr Vimi is setting a new standard for DEI in business, demonstrating the potential for even small organisations to drive global change.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis and courtesy of Dr Vimi